St. Charles

The St. Charles boat ramp provides public access to the South Fork Bad River in Saint Charles, Saginaw County. This concrete ramp facility serves kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats looking to explore the river. The access point is conveniently located in the Saint Charles area, making it a good starting point for paddling excursions on the South Fork.

Paddlers should be aware that the current can be swift near the boat ramp, so use caution during launch and landing. Watch for underwater hazards in the immediate access area. The ramp features a tight turn-around, so plan accordingly if you're launching or retrieving larger boats. This location provides excellent access to explore the scenic waterway and nearby natural areas.

The South Fork Bad River corridor offers paddlers opportunities to explore diverse habitats, including access to nearby wildlife management areas. The Michigan Wetland Management District and Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge are located in the region, providing paddlers with scenic views of marsh, bottomland hardwood forest, and grassland ecosystems. Check current river conditions before paddling, as water levels and flow rates can vary seasonally.